Ty Shang, M.D., Ph.D.

Undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or untreated cerebrovascular conditions (conditions that affect blood vessels in the brain), along with other risk factors, can lead to a stroke.

As a vascular neurologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, Ty Shang, M.D., Ph.D., has the expertise to diagnose cerebrovascular diseases and stroke, and to make sure patients receive evidence-based care to improve treatments and prevent strokes from occurring.

Identifying the causes of a stroke can be like detective work, Shang says, and “solving” the case is very rewarding.

“We put together all the clues and find out what happened in the past – the factors that caused someone to develop cerebrovascular disease or have a stroke,” he says.

“We’re able to use sophisticated imaging to precisely pinpoint the lesion in the brain, treat the underlying mechanisms, and avert future problems, which I think is the best part of being a vascular neurologist.”

Dr. Shang also sees referred patients for whom neuroimages (such as MRI, CT angiogram, or carotid duplex) have indicated cerebrovascular disease, as well as patients seeking an expert second opinion. He is certified to read neurosonology studies such as carotid duplex and transcranial Doppler, which gives him a particularly thorough understanding of patient issues.

“Every patient, every case of cerebrovascular disease, and every stroke is different,” Dr. Shang says. “By treating patients based on what has caused the problem, I provide very individualized care.”

Dr. Shang is a leader in UT Southwestern’s Comprehensive Stroke Center, which is nationally recognized for the quality of care delivered and patient outcomes. In addition to his clinical responsibilities, he helps to train future vascular neurologists in his role as Assistant Director of UT Southwestern’s Stroke Fellowship Program. He also conducts research, with the goal of translating it to continually improving clinical care.

“I’m very proud of the comprehensive care we provide – from acute care to stroke prevention – and the high level of successful outcomes we’re able to achieve for our patients,” he says. “These things make UT Southwestern one of the best centers for the treatment of cerebrovascular disease and stroke.”